Essay Structure and Analysis Techniques

Essay Structure

When writing an essay on Blood Brothers, it's important to follow a clear structure:

1. Introduction:

   • Address the question directly
   • Keep it concise
   • Introduce three main points you will discuss

2. Main Body Paragraphs:

   • Follow the "What? How? Why?" structure
   • Include relevant quotes and analysis

3. Conclusion:

   • Summarize your main ideas
   • Refer back to the question

Example Essay Structure:

• Introduction: Reference the question and outline key points (e.g. working class lack of opportunities, social bias, class stereotypes)
• Paragraph 1: Analyze lack of opportunities for working-class characters, focusing on Mrs. Johnstone
• Paragraph 2: Examine social bias and its effects on characters
• Paragraph 3: Discuss how Russell uses language and dialect to portray class differences
• Conclusion: Sum up how Russell presents social class issues in the play

Analysis Techniques

When analyzing Blood Brothers, consider these key areas:

1. AO1: Identify & Interpret Evidence

   • Use relevant quotes from the text
   • Explain what they reveal about characters or themes

2. AO2: Subject Terminology & Writer's Ideas

   • Discuss Russell's use of literary techniques
   • Analyze how he conveys his ideas about social class

3. AO3: Context

   • Link the play to its historical and social context
   • Discuss how this influences characters and events

4. AO4: Register and Ambitious Vocabulary

   • Use formal academic language
   • Incorporate subject-specific terminology

Highlight: Pay particular attention to Russell's use of Liverpool dialect, including clipped words and colloquialisms, to portray class differences.

Language Analysis

Russell's use of language is crucial in portraying social class differences:

• Liverpool Dialect: Characters' speech patterns reflect their social background
• Clipping of words: Working-class characters often use shortened forms
• Colloquialisms: Informal language helps characterize working-class figures

Example: Analyze how Mrs. Johnstone's dialogue differs from Mrs. Lyons', reflecting their different social classes and education levels.

By focusing on these elements in your essay, you can provide a comprehensive analysis of how Russell presents social class issues in Blood Brothers.